Arsenal links with Kylian Mbappe go back some way. In January, French newspaper L’Equipe reported that the young AS Monaco player had impressed Arsenal scout Gilles Grimandi.
Then in February, Le Journal Du Dimanche detailed how the left winger was stalling over signing a new contract, because he and his entourage wanted some kind of assurances about playing time.
The newspaper said: ‘With all this uncertainty, a few big clubs are said to have been snooping around, including the two in Manchester, but Le JDD seem to think Arsenal are the ones to lookout for, especially since Arsene Wenger is convinced of Mbappe’s ability to make the difference in games.’
Thursday’s copy of French newspaper L’Equipe has some words from the player’s father, who is concerned about the playing time issue. Mbappe is said to be frustrated at his lack of involvement and the 17 year old isn’t getting the chances he thought he would.
The suggestion is that Mbappe signed a contract after getting assurances that haven’t been met. L’Equipe mention Arsenal interest once more, along with Liverpool and PSG, and then quote Wilfrid Mbappe as saying: “This is also why I do not really understand the strategy.
“I do not see what they have to gain from this situation that creates more frustration. It does not make Kylian happy and it shows on his face during the week.
“Some will say he is only seventeen years old, needs to calm down, but it’s not impatience, because the club themselves said he would play. As he needs at his age, there will be a reflection ahead of the winter transfer window.”
The player’s dad speaking to the media is obviously a sure sign of unrest, and one which Arsenal will no doubt be keeping an eye on.
